Cable distribution system

ABSTRACT

A cable distribution system is provided wherein a feeder cable with one or more feeder fibers is received by a distribution device or box. The feeder fibers are terminated to a fiber optic connector. Customers can directly connect to the connectors of the feeder cable through an adapter and a mating connector for a point-to-point connection. Alternatively, a splitter input can be connected to one or more of the connectors of the feeder cable, such as through a pigtail extending from the splitter, wherein the splitter splits the signal as desired into a plurality of outputs. The outputs of the splitters can be in the form of connectors or adapters. Customers can connect to the splitter outputs through a mating connector (and an adapter if needed).

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/320,198, filed on Dec. 19, 2016, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,732,370, whichis a National Stage of International Application No. PCT/EP2015/063620,filed Jun. 17, 2015, which claims benefit of U.S. Patent ApplicationSer. No. 62/013,223 filed on Jun. 17, 2014, U.S. Patent Application Ser.No. 62/017,620 filed on Jun. 26, 2014, and U.S. Patent Application Ser.No. 62/084,416 filed on Nov. 25, 2014, the disclosures of which areincorporated herein by reference in their entireties. To the extentappropriate a claim of priority is made to each of the above disclosedapplications.

BACKGROUND

As demand for telecommunications increases, fiber optic networks arebeing extended in more and more areas. In facilities such as multipledwelling units (MDU's), apartments, condominiums, businesses, etc.,fiber optic distribution terminals and boxes are used to providesubscriber access points to the fiber optic network. Cables are alsoused to interconnect the subscriber access points provided by the fiberdistribution terminals with subscriber interface units (e.g., OpticalNetwork Terminals) provided at subscriber locations (e.g., at eachresidence of an MDU). With respect to such fiber distribution systems,there is a need for techniques to effectively manage cables and opticalsplitters while also taking into consideration space constraints.

SUMMARY

A cable distribution system is provided wherein a feeder cable with oneor more feeder fibers is received by a distribution terminal, device orbox. The feeder fibers are terminated to a fiber optic connector.Customers can directly connect to the connectors of the feeder cablethrough an adapter and a mating connector for a point-to-pointconnection. Alternatively, a splitter input can be connected to one ormore of the connectors of the feeder cable, such as through a pigtailextending from the splitter, wherein the splitter splits the signal asdesired into a plurality of outputs. The outputs of the splitters can bein the form of connectors or adapters. Customers can connect to thesplitter outputs through a mating connector (and an adapter if needed).

The cable distribution system allows for mixing of connection types tothe customer(s) such as a direct connection (point to point), or a splitsignal connection. Further, the types of splitters can be mixed andvaried as desired, such as 1×2, 1×4, 1×8, 1×16, 1×32, 2×4, etc., orother. Different combinations of splitters can be used in thedistribution device, such as one or more 1×4 splitters, one or more 1×8splitters, and/or one or more 1×16 splitters. Other combinations arepossible.

The outputs of the splitters can be in the form of connectors oradapters mounted at or within the splitter housing, or connectors oradapters on the ends of stubs extending from the splitter housings. Thestubs (semi-rigid) can improve density and improve connector and/oradapter access through movement of the stubs. Preferably the stubs arenot so flexible that the stubs become easily tangled up with each other.

Protective covers may be provided for the overall device, the feedercable, the connectors and/or the adapters of the feeder cable, anysplices, and the splitters.

The connectors and adapters utilized in the cable distribution systemcan be any desired connection type, such as SC type, or LC type. MPOtypes may be used. Another example is a connector and adapter system asshown in patent document nos. WO2012/112344 and WO 2013/117598, theentire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference. Thisconnector and mating adapter may also be referred to as a LightPlugconnector and adapter, or an LP connector and adapter, in theaccompanying pages. The LightPlug connector system utilizes ferrulelessconnectors, with bare fiber to bare fiber connections. This connectortype can be terminated to a bare fiber in the factory or in the fieldusing a LightPlug termination tool. With respect to LightPlug connectorsand adapters, some cost savings may be realized by adding the adapter ata later date when connectivity is desired. A hybrid adapter can be usedto connect a ferruleless LightPlug connector to a ferruled connector,like an SC type.

A fiber distribution device in accordance with the disclosure maycomprise a base, and an external cover (optional). An internal cover(optional) may be positioned over a cable area which may cover a splice(optional) and an input cable, such as a feeder cable, including aplurality of fibers. A plurality of fiber optic input connectors extendfrom the cable and are each matable with a fiber optic adapter, whereinoutput connectors are connectable to the input connectors through theadapters to provide single service (point to point) outputs. A splitter(or a plurality of splitters) can be used instead of the outputconnectors, wherein the splitter includes a plurality of outputs eachwith an output connector or adapter, and wherein the splitters eachinclude a splitter input for mating with one of the input connectors. Inthis manner, the terminations of the feeder input cable are done first,and then it can be decided later whether each of the terminations are tobe point to point or split signal. Also, or alternatively, the usage ofthe terminations can be changed over time, if desired.

The fiber distribution device may be arranged wherein the inputconnector faces in a first direction and wherein the splitter orsplitters include outputs in the form of a line or lines of connectorsor adapters which face in the same direction. A cable link between theinput connector and the splitter is provided.

A splitter device in accordance with the disclosure may comprise:

a first end having a plurality of outputs;

the first end also having an input;

a splitter component between the outputs and the input;

wherein the outputs are in the form of fiber optic connectors oradapters, and the input is in the form of a cable.

The outputs of the splitter device may be in the form of connectors oradapters mounted at or within the splitter housing, or stubs terminatedby connectors or adapters.

The splitter devices may include mounting features for mounting to abase of a distribution device. Some mounting features include one ormore openings through the splitter housings.

Aspects of the disclosure also relate to growing the capacity where thecustomer may want to put in more splitters than the device or box canaccommodate. A second dummy-box can be mounted next to the initiallyinstalled box; extra splitters can be mounted in this second box, theinputs from the added splitters are patched to one of the terminatedconnectors from the first box. An extension patchcord might be needed ifthe patching distance is too great.

Growing capacity may also occur where the customer wants more splittersand Point to Point (double density) at the same location. A second boxcan be mounted next to the initially installed box; one un-used fiberbundle/tube from the feeder is routed to the new box to the 250 μmoverlength compartment; after stripping to 250 μm; the second box can beinstalled similar to the first box. Depending on the feeder-cable, moreboxes can be connected.

Growing capacity in another case can occur where the customer wants asecond box at a nearby location. A second box can be mounted somewherein the neighborhood; feeder-fibers from un-used bundles/tubes arespliced to a feeder-cable which runs to the second box; this splicedfeeder-stub enters the second box in the same way the feeder enters thefirst box. Depending on the feeder-cable, more boxes can be connected ina daisy-chaining manner.

A variety of additional aspects will be set forth in the descriptionthat follows. These aspects can relate to individual features and tocombinations of features. It is to be understood that both the foregoinggeneral description and the following detailed description are exemplaryand explanatory only and are not restrictive of the broad concepts uponwhich the embodiments disclosed herein are based.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 shows two distribution boxes in perspective view in accordancewith aspects of the present invention;

FIG. 2 shows the two distribution boxes of FIG. 1 without the fiberstorage covers, the splitters and the feeder termination covers;

FIG. 3 shows an individual distribution box of the type shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 shows two distribution boxes located at remote locations from oneanother;

FIG. 5 shows another example distribution box in perspective view,including four 1×2 splitters;

FIG. 6 shows a similar distribution box to the distribution box of FIG.5 , with four 1×4 splitters;

FIG. 7 shows a similar distribution box to the distribution box of FIG.5 , with two 1×8 splitters;

FIG. 8 shows a similar distribution box to the distribution box of FIG.5 , with a single 1×16 splitter;

FIG. 9 shows an exploded view of the distribution box of FIG. 5 ,showing one splitter, and a feeder termination plate separated from abase;

FIG. 10 shows a similar distribution box as in FIG. 5 , showing two 1×4splitters and one 1×8 splitter connected to feeder terminations;

FIG. 11 shows a 1×2 splitter for use in the distribution box of FIGS.5-10 ;

FIG. 12 shows a 1×4 splitter for use in the distribution box of FIGS.5-10 ;

FIG. 13 shows a 1×8 splitter for use in the distribution box of FIGS.5-10 ;

FIG. 14 shows a 1×16 splitter for use in the distribution box of FIGS.5-10 ;

FIG. 15 shows a perspective view of the feeder termination plate of thedistribution box of FIG. 5 ;

FIG. 16 shows an alternative perspective view of the feeder terminationplate;

FIG. 17 shows another embodiment of a distribution box in perspectiveview including two 1×16 splitters and splitter output pigtails;

FIG. 18 shows a distribution box similar to the distribution box of FIG.17 , including four 1×8 splitters;

FIG. 19 shows one of the 1×16 splitters of the distribution box of FIG.17 ;

FIG. 20 shows one of the 1×8 splitters of the distribution box of FIG.18 ;

FIG. 21 shows the distribution box with the a 1×8 splitter and a 1×16splitters removed;

FIG. 22 shows an exploded perspective view with a termination feedercover removed from a base;

FIG. 23 shows a further perspective view of the exploded view of FIG. 22;

FIG. 24 shows an alternative perspective view to the view of FIG. 17 ;

FIG. 25 shows an alternative perspective view to the view of FIG. 18 ;

FIG. 26 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a distributionbox including four 1×4 splitters;

FIG. 27 shows the distribution box of FIG. 26 , with three splittersremoved;

FIG. 28 shows a perspective view of one of the splitters of FIGS. 26 and27 ;

FIG. 29 shows a perspective view of the splitter of FIG. 28 from anotherorientation;

FIG. 30 shows in perspective view another embodiment of a distributionbox;

FIG. 31 shows a further perspective view of the distribution box of FIG.30 and including an outgoing fiber box and tube holder;

FIG. 32 shows the distribution box of FIG. 30 , with the cover in anopen position after being rotatably moved, and showing the internalfeeder cabling;

FIG. 33 shows a front view of the distribution box of FIG. 32 ;

FIG. 34 shows the distribution box of FIGS. 30-33 , with various coversin place in the interior, and without the splitters or cables;

FIG. 35 shows the base of the distribution box of FIGS. 30 and 31 ;

FIGS. 36A and B shows a cover which fits over the slack and splice areaon the base of FIG. 35 ;

FIGS. 37 and 38 show a feeder cable retention device of the distributionbox of FIGS. 30 and 31 ;

FIG. 39 shows a cross-sectional view through the closed distribution boxof FIGS. 30 and 31 , showing a portion of the lock which holds the coverto the base;

FIG. 40 shows an exploded perspective view of the outgoing cable box ofthe distribution box of FIG. 30 ;

FIG. 41 shows a further perspective view of the interior of thedistribution box of FIGS. 30 and 31 , without any cables shown in thebox;

FIG. 42 shows an another view of the distribution box of FIG. 41 ;

FIG. 43 shows an example of a feeder termination holder of thedistribution box of FIGS. 30 and 31 ;

FIG. 44 shows another example of a feeder termination holder of thedistribution box of FIGS. 30 and 31 ;

FIG. 45 shows a further example of a feeder termination holder of thedistribution box of FIGS. 30 and 31 ;

FIGS. 46 and 47 show a feeder termination cover of the distribution boxof FIGS. 30 and 31 ;

FIGS. 48 and 49 show the distribution box of the distribution box ofFIGS. 30 and 31 connected to an input feeder cable and outgoing cablesfrom the splitters;

FIG. 50 shows the distribution box of FIGS. 48 and 49 without any cablesconnected to the splitter outputs and all the splitter inputs connectedto the feeder terminations;

FIG. 51 shows the distribution box of FIGS. 48 and 49 with the additionof the splitter output cables to the view of FIG. 50 ;

FIG. 52 shows the distribution box of FIGS. 48 and 49 with the additionof two point-to-point connections that connect to the feederterminations and extend out of the distribution box relative to the viewof FIG. 51 ;

FIG. 53 shows a 1×4 splitter for use in the distribution box of FIGS. 30and 31 ;

FIG. 54 shows a 1×8 splitter for use in the distribution box of FIGS. 30and 31 ;

FIG. 55 shows a 1×16 splitter for use in the distribution box of FIGS.30 and 31 ;

FIG. 56 shows a latching method for connecting a stack of splitters ofFIGS. 53-55 ;

FIG. 57 shows a 1×4 splitter of FIG. 53 in exploded view;

FIG. 58 shows a further view of the splitter of FIG. 57 ;

FIGS. 59-61 show a connector holder for use in the splitters of FIGS.53-55 in various perspective views;

FIGS. 62-64 show the connector holder of FIGS. 59-61 holding a firstconnector;

FIGS. 65-67 show the connector holder and the connector of FIGS. 62-64 ,and an adapter mounted to the connector;

FIG. 68 shows an inner housing portion of the 1×4 splitter of FIG. 53 ;

FIG. 69 shows an inner housing portion of the 1×8 splitter of FIG. 54 ;

FIG. 70 shows an inner housing portion of the 1×16 splitter of FIG. 55 ;

FIGS. 71 and 72 show the distribution box of FIGS. 30 and 31 ready toreceive splitters;

FIGS. 73 and 74 show the distribution box of FIGS. 30 and 31 with thefeeder termination cover removed;

FIGS. 75-77 show the feeder distribution box of FIGS. 30 and 31connected to splitters and feeder terminations in the form of LCconnectors and adapters;

FIG. 78 shows a splitter of the distribution box of FIGS. 75-77 with LCadapters as the splitter outputs for a 1×4 splitter;

FIG. 79 shows an alternative splitter utilizing duplex LC adapters forthe splitter outputs for a 1×8 splitter;

FIG. 80 shows a schematic view illustrating the distribution box of thevarious embodiments showing feeder fibers connected to splitter outputsand to point-to-point outputs.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following descriptions and accompanying drawings show variousexamples of implementations of the cable distribution systems.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-80 , a distribution box receives a feeder cablewith one or more feeder fibers. A variety of splitters are shown havinga splitter housing mounted to distribution box for splitting of thesignals of the feeder fibers. The splitter input in the illustratedexamples is in the form of a cable. Within the interior of the splitter,the splitter input is split into a plurality of outputs. Thedistribution box can hold one or more splitters. A termination fieldholds connectorized ends of the feeder fibers. Connectorized fibersconnect to the feeder fiber connectorized ends at the termination field.The preferred distribution box allows for: 1) split outputs of asplitter input cable connected at the termination field, 2) point topoint connection with an output cable at the termination field; or 3)both split feeder signal and point to point feeder signals. FIG. 80shows this schematically.

Referring further to FIG. 80 , the schematic representation of adistribution system 10 includes a distribution box 12 shown offeringboth point-to-point 14 and split output 16 connections for the feedercable 20 to the service users. While connectors 22 are shown asLightPlug connectors as the connection interface for the box, adapterscould be used instead to connect the two connectors. Using connectors asthe interface delays the cost of the adapters 24 until connection isneeded. The splitter inputs 28 and the point to point connections aremade at termination field 26.

System 10 allows for the later addition of splitters 18 to delay earlycost if all of the customers initially can be served by point to pointconnections. At later date, the splitters can be added once the splitoutputs are desired.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-4 , a distribution box 112 is shown having abase 114 and an input (feeder) cable area 116. The base 114 alsoincludes a splitter area 118 and an area 120 for feeder terminations122. The base 114 includes one or more storage areas 124. One storagearea 126 can be used for cable slack for the cables 130 of the feederterminations. A second storage area 128 can be used for unused feedercables 132. The feeder terminations 122 are in the form of LightPlugconnectors which are held in place ready for mating to a LightPlugadapter. The feeder terminations can be directly connected to a customerwith a point-to-point connection. The feeder terminations can also beconnected to a splitter input 140 from a splitter 142 mounted within thedistribution box 112, or another distribution box 113. As shown in FIG.1 , a cover 150 encloses the cable storage areas 126, 128. If desired, asplice area can also be provided on the base. Referring to FIG. 1 , afurther cover 160 is positioned over the feeder terminations 122. Acover 170 covers base 114 and the interior components.

Referring still to now to FIGS. 1-4 , various splitters are mounted tothe distribution box. The splitter inputs are connected to feederterminations wherein the feeder signals of those terminations are splitinto splitter outputs. The splitter outputs are shown as fiber opticconnectors disposed within the housings of each splitter. Thedistribution cable or output cable is connectorized with a matingconnector and a mating adapter for connecting to the splitter outputs.

As shown in FIG. 1 , there are six feeder terminations, three of whichare connected to splitters of one distribution box 112, and three ofwhich are connected to another distribution box 113. Any still openfeeder terminations can be directly connected to a customer in apoint-to-point arrangement, or can be connected to further splitterinputs of additional splitters. A box cover 170 typically is placed overthe splitters, the feeder terminations, and the base to protect theinterior. Cable management devices 190 help to manage the output cables.

As shown in FIG. 1 , a second dummy-box 113 can be mounted next to theinitially installed box 112. Extra splitters 142 can be mounted in thissecond box 113, the inputs from the added splitters are patched to oneof the terminated connectors from the first box 112. Feeder terminations134 of box 113 are not used in the arrangement of FIG. 1 .

As shown in FIG. 2 , a second box 113 can be mounted next to theinitially installed box 112. One un-used fiber bundle/tube 132 from thefeeder 20 is routed to the new box to the 250 μm overlength compartment130. After stripping to 250 μm. The second box 113 can be installedsimilar to the first box 112. Depending on the feeder-cable, more boxescan be connected. Feeder terminations 134 of box 113 are used in thearrangement of FIG. 2 .

FIG. 3 shows an example of feeder cable installation which results interminated fibers which can be connected in a point-to-point arrangementwith a customer, or to a splitter, and then to the costumer(s) asdesired. In the illustrated example, six terminated feeder fibers areprovided. Other examples can include more or less terminated fibers forthe distribution box. FIG. 3 also shows the distribution box at initialinstallation lacking any splitters, and only providing directpoint-to-point connections with the customers. If desired, at a laterdate, a splitter can be added to provide additional outputs forcustomers. Additional splitters can be added at that time, or at a laterdate, as desired. This helps defer costs. FIG. 3 shows distribution box112 with an unused fiber bundle/tube 132 in storage3 area 128, ready forfuture use, such as for repair, or connection to another box 113.

As shown in FIG. 4 , a second box 113 can be mounted somewhere in theneighborhood and feeder-fibers from un-used bundles/tubes 132 arespliced in box 112 to a feeder-cable 198 which runs to the second box113. This spliced feeder-stub enters the second box 113 in the same waythe feeder 20 enters the first box 112. Feeder terminations 134 of box113 are used in the arrangement of FIG. 2 . Depending on thefeeder-cable, more boxes can be connected in a daisy-chaining manner.

The example splitters 142 include a splitter input cable 172 and 174 andmultiple outputs formed at the splitter housing. Different lengths ofcables 172 and 174 can be provided if necessary. Various examples areshown of different splitter sizes and variations in the number ofsplitter outputs. As shown, the splitters 142 can have differentthicknesses in multiples of T thickness. Each splitter 142 includes oneor more holes 182 to receive posts 180 of base 114. The holes can beround or oval, or another shape.

In FIGS. 1-4 , splitter 142 includes splitter outputs in the form ofconnectors 178 mounted at and/or within the splitter housing 144. Thesplitter input 172, 174 connects to the feeder terminations 122 in theform of connectors 22. The cable stub 172, 174 extending from thesplitter housing 144 connectors 22 and adapters 24 disposed at thedistal ends of the cable stubs. Adapters 24 can be used instead as thedemarcation point for the splitter outputs 16 and/or for the feederterminations.

FIGS. 5-16 show an alternative distribution box 212 having a base 214wherein the feeder cable 20 is mounted to a cover 216 along with thefeeder terminations 222. Such a construction allows the feederterminations to be worked on or accessed by a technician separate fromthe base 214, as desired. Cover 216 includes a cable storage area 224 ona back side of the cover. The example splitters 242 include a splitterinput cable 250 and multiple outputs 246 formed at the splitter housing248. Various examples are shown of different splitter sizes andvariations in the number of splitter outputs. As shown, the splitters242 can have different thicknesses in multiples of T thickness and/ordifferent widths in multiples of W widths. Each splitter 242 includesone or more holes 282 to receive posts 280 of base 114. A cover likecover 170 can be provided.

Referring now to FIGS. 17-25 , various embodiments of a distribution box312 and splitters 342 are shown including the cable stubs 344 extendingfrom the splitter housing 346 to form the splitter outputs. Box 312includes a base 314 and a middle cover 316 over cable storage area 326on base 314. Each splitter 342 has a splitter input 350 in the form of acable. A cover like cover 170 can be provided. The use of a splitterwith the fiber stubs for the outputs of the splitter can improvedensity, and connector and adapter access.

Referring now to FIGS. 26-29 , a further embodiment of a distributionbox 412 and splitters 442 are shown. The splitters 442 slidably mountparallel to the base 414. The splitters 442 can be individually removedor partially removed to improve access to the splitter outputs. Eachsplitter 442 has a splitter input 450. FIG. 44 shows a splitterretention clip or latch 446 for retaining the splitter 442 with the base414. A cover like cover 170 can be provided. Splitters 442 sliderelative to base 114 with an interlocking slide. As shown, splitters 442include a dovetail projection 460, and base 414 includes a mating slot470. As also shown, feeder terminations 422 have four connectors 22connected to one of each of the four splitter inputs 450. The two openconnectors 22 are available for point to point connections orconnections to other splitters in other boxes 412.

As shown in FIGS. 26-29 , the splitters 442 are located orthogonal tothe splitters previously noted. Such positioning is an alternativepositioning. The splitter inputs are located closest to the base 414 inthis example.

FIGS. 1-29 all use a LightPlug connector and adapter. A LightPluginstallation tool permits a bare fiber to be inserted into the tool, andthe tool adds the LightPlug connector to the end of the fiber toterminate the fiber. Use of the LightPlug installation tool and theLightPlug connectors and mating adapters provide just one embodiment ofthe present distribution system. Each splitter output is in the form ofa fiber optic connector, including a shutter. The illustrated connectorsare LightPlug connectors. The splitter input has a LightPlug connectorat a distal end mated with a LightPlug adapter. The LightPlug adapter isconnectable to a distribution cable terminated with a LightPlugconnector. The LightPlug tool, connector and adapter system is shown inpatent document nos. WO2012/112344 and WO 2013/117598, noted previouslyincorporated by reference. Other forms of connectors, including SC andLC can be used, in addition to multi-fiber connectors, such as MPOconnectors.

The splitters can include port identifiers, a splitter identifier, andan RFID tag, if desired.

Various arrangements of splitters are shown with different numbers ofsplitter outputs. These splitters can be mixed and matched in thedistribution boxes as desired.

The LightPlug feeder terminations are shown connected to the base. Theconnectors are held with clips ready for connection to an adapter, whichis added later in combination with a second connector for connection toa customer or the splitters. Alternatively, adapters can be mounted tothe base.

As noted, various implementations are provided for adding capacity overtime. One implementation is to add the splitters as needed over time.Another implementation for adding capacity uses two distribution boxes.Splitters from the second distribution box can be connected to feederterminations of the first distribution box. Another implementation foradding capacity includes a feeder cable connected to two (or more)distribution boxes as desired. This provides additional feederterminations for connections to customers directly, or throughsplitters. Another implementation for increasing capacity includesadding a second (or more) distribution box at a remote location whereina further feeder cable is spliced to the first feeder cable to link thetwo distribution boxes. Another implementation is to add a new cover 170to the distribution box to add increased outputs through the use oflarger splitters.

Referring now to FIGS. 30-79 , an alternative distribution box 512 isshown. The distribution box includes a cover 570, a base 514, a lock 572(with a key 573) for the cover, a connection box 580 to secure acorrugated tube 582 for housing cables, and an internal tray 516 usedfor cable routing and storage (and splice). Cover 570 is hinged at hinge574 to base 514. A splitter area 518 holds splitters on one or moreposts 526, 528. Posts 526, 528 can be different shapes and/or sizes tofacilitate one way fit with the splitters 642 (see FIG. 48 ). The feedercables 20 pass through a channel 536 and are terminated at a feedertermination area 522.

An internal cover 560 is positioned over the splice and storage area524. A termination cover 560 is also provided. The internal cover 560,or demarcation cover, fits over the storage and splice area 524. Tabs562 and snaps 564 are used to mount the demarcation cover 560 to thebase 514. Handles 566 are provided on cover 560. The left side of area524 can be used to store active fibers. The right side of area 524 canbe used to store dark fibers or unused fibers. Both the left and rightsides of the area 524 can be used to store splice holders.

A feeder cable clamping device 530 is shown for use in the distributionbox. The clamping device 530 includes arms 532 which squeeze one or morefeeder cables upon mounting of the demarcation cover 560 to the base.The feeder cable clamping device 530 can be in the form of a separatepart mounted to the base. Arms 568 extend from cover 560 to restrainclamping device 530 and force them to clamp to the cables. Inner teethcan also be provided on arms 532 to grip the cables.

A strength member clamp 540 is shown positioned between a portion of thebase 546 and a metal clamping plate 544. A ramp 542 promotes upwardmovement of the strength member to the clamping location.

Feeder termination inserts 590 are shown for holding connectors and/oradapters associated with the feeder terminations. The insert 590 snapsto the base 514. Different inserts 590 are provided for differentconnectors or adapters. FIG. 43 includes openings 592 for LightPlugconnectors 22. FIG. 44 includes openings 594 for three SC or LCconnectors 22. FIG. 45 includes an opening 596 for six SC or LCconnectors 22 or other connectors.

A feeder termination cover or tower cover 550 is shown for use incovering the feeder input cables. A latch 554 holds the terminationcover 550 in place. A finger recess 552 allows for finger activation ofthe latch 554. A cutout 556 allows for finger access for the installeror technician for handling of the adjacent splitters.

The connection box 580 is made of two pieces 584, 586 and connects aflexible conduitor corrugated tube 586 to the distribution box 512 fororganizing and protecting the distribution or output cables extendingfrom the box. Connection box 580 snaps to base 514. Preferably, a foaminsert 600 with slits 602 is used on the base to provide a seal aroundthe cables entering the connection box.

The cover lock 572 is shown wherein a key 573 engages a turning elementto open and close the lock. In general, the key cannot be removed fromthe cover unless the cover is closed and the lock is locked. Additionaldetails of the lock and key are shown and described U.S. ApplicationSer. No. 62/073,631, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated byreference in its entirety.

Referring to FIGS. 48-52 , a feeder cable 20 is terminated at the feederterminations 522. Input cables 650 from the splitters 642 are shownconnected to the feeder terminations 522 to provide input signals foreach of the splitters 642 for splitting and connection to distributioncables 652. FIG. 52 also shows some of the feeder terminations 522 areconnected to individual cables for point-to-point connections where theuse of a split output is not desired. FIGS. 48-52 also illustrate theuse of LightPlug connectors and adapters.

Referring now to FIGS. 53-70 various views are shown of splitters orsplitter cassettes. The splitters can take many forms and formats. Ingeneral, a common profile is provided for use with the distribution box.FIG. 53 shows a 1×4 splitter 702. FIG. 54 shows a 1×8 splitter 704. FIG.55 shows a 1×16 splitter 706. FIGS. 53-55 show a common profile, butdifferent heights.

FIG. 56-70 show the splitter output ports in greater detail in the formof the LightPlug connector 22. FIG. 56 also shows a snap feature tomableextending (latch 710, socket 712) for connecting two splitters togetheror for connecting one splitter to the base. This feature is useful forremoving the need for a separate Velcro strap or other fixation device.FIGS. 57-67 show one example of a LightPlug connector retainer 720utilized utilized with an internal splitter tray 724 for holding thesplitter outputs ready for connection to distribution cables. LightPlugconnector retainer 720 includes snaps to mount to a splitter module.Splitter tray 724 fits into splitter cover or housing 726. Splitters702, 704, 706 include oval openings 730, 732 for mating with posts 526,528. Referring now to FIG. 70 , a double sided internal splitter tray isutilized in a 1×16 splitter configuration. Various snaps are utilized toconnect the inner trays to the outer cover of the splitters. FIGS. 71-74show further views of the box 512 with the cover in the open position.

FIGS. 75-80 show similar splitters as shown with the distribution box ofFIGS. 30-74 , but utilizing LC adapters and connectors for the variousfiber connections of the distribution box. As shown, LC adapters definethe feeder terminations 804 and also the splitter outputs of splitters802 which can be connected to distribution cables terminated with LCconnectors. Further, the splitter inputs are provided with one or morepigtails terminated by a LC connector connectable to one or more of theadapters, one or more of the LC adapters of the feeder terminations. Asshown, the LC adapters can be duplex or simplex adapters. MPO connectorsand adapters can also be used.

-   10 distribution system-   12 distribution box-   14 point-to-point-   16 split output-   18 splitters-   20 feeder-   22 connectors-   24 adapters-   26 termination field-   28 splitter inputs-   112 box-   113 box-   114 base-   116 cable area-   118 splitter area-   120 area-   122 feeder terminations-   124 storage areas-   126 cable storage areas-   128 cable storage areas-   130 cables-   132 one un-used fiber bundle/tube-   134 feeder terminations-   140 splitter input-   142 extra splitters-   144 splitter housing-   150 cover-   160 cover-   170 box cover-   172 cable stub-   174 cable stub-   178 connectors-   180 posts-   182 holes-   190 cable management devices-   198 feeder-cable-   212 alternative distribution box-   214 base-   216 cover-   222 feeder terminations-   224 cable storage area-   242 splitter-   246 multiple outputs-   248 splitter housing-   250 splitter input cable-   280 posts-   282 holes-   312 box-   314 base-   316 middle cover-   326 cable storage area-   342 splitter-   344 cable stubs-   346 splitter housing-   350 splitter input-   412 distribution box-   414 base-   422 feeder terminations-   442 splitter-   446 latch-   450 splitter input-   460 dovetail projection-   470 mating slot-   512 distribution box-   514 base-   516 internal tray-   518 splitter area-   522 feeder termination area-   524 area-   526 posts-   528 posts-   530 clamping device-   532 arms-   536 channel-   540 strength member clamp-   542 ramp-   544 metal clamping plate-   546 base-   550 termination cover-   552 finger recess-   554 latch-   556 cutout-   560 cover-   562 tabs-   564 snaps-   566 handles-   568 arms-   570 cover-   572 cover lock-   573 key-   574 hinge-   580 connection box-   582 corrugated tube-   584 two pieces-   586 flexible conduitor corrugated tube-   590 feeder termination inserts-   592 openings-   594 openings-   596 opening-   600 foam insert-   602 slits-   642 splitters-   650 input cables-   652 distribution cables-   702 splitter-   704 splitter-   706 splitter-   710 latch-   712 socket-   720 lightplug connector retainer-   724 internal splitter tray-   726 housing-   730 oval openings-   732 oval openings-   802 splitters-   804 feeder terminations

What is claimed is:
 1. A fiber distribution system comprising: a feedercable; a base defining a front opening and a channel through which thefeeder cable can be routed, the channel extending lengthwise within afirst side and a front portion of the base, the channel defining abreakout region at which a plurality of optical cables of the feedercable can be accessed, the base including a holding location configuredto hold a plurality of fiber optic feeder terminations; a plurality offiber optic feeder terminations positioned in the holding location atthe base, the holding location being located at a rear portion on thefirst side of the base; a splitter having a plurality of outputs and asplitter input cable with a connectorized end plugged into one of thefiber optic feeder terminations, the splitter being located at the rearportion on the first side of the base; wherein a first output cable witha connectorized end is connectable to a splitter output; wherein asecond output cable with a connectorized end is connectable to a fiberoptic feeder termination to provide a single service output; ademarcation cover removable from the base, wherein when the demarcationcover is installed on the base front portion, the demarcation covercovers the channel without extending over or covering the base rearportion including the splitter and the plurality of fiber optic feederterminations; and an external cover mounted to the base, wherein whenthe external cover is in a closed position, the external cover coversthe demarcation cover, the splitter, and the plurality of fiber opticfeeder terminations.
 2. The fiber distribution system of claim 1,wherein a feeder termination cover extends upwardly from the base. 3.The fiber distribution system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of fiberoptic feeder terminations face downwardly.
 4. The fiber distributionsystem of claim 1, wherein the breakout region leads to a routingpassage that provides slack storage around a spool or bend radiuslimiter.
 5. The fiber distribution system of claim 4, wherein a splicingpassage leads from the routing passage to one or more optical spliceholders; and wherein a pigtail passage also connects to the routingpassage and/or to the splicing passage, the pigtail passage extending tothe plurality of fiber optic feeder terminations.
 6. The fiberdistribution system of claim 1, wherein the splitter input cableprotrudes from a bottom surface of the splitter and the plurality ofoutputs of the splitter face in a similar direction at the bottomsurface.
 7. The fiber distribution system of claim 1, wherein theplurality of outputs of the splitter and the plurality of fiber opticfeeder terminations face in the same direction.
 8. The fiberdistribution system of claim 7, wherein the plurality of outputs of thesplitter and the plurality of fiber optic feeder terminations are facingdownwardly.
 9. The fiber distribution system of claim 1, wherein thesplitter mounts to the base over a post.
 10. The fiber distributionsystem of claim 9, wherein the splitter mounts to the base over twoposts.
 11. The fiber distribution system of claim 10, wherein the twoposts have different sizes and/or shapes.
 12. The fiber distributionsystem of claim 1, wherein the splitter is slidably mounted to the base.13. The fiber distribution system of claim 1, wherein the channel hastwo slack storage areas on opposite sides of the base.
 14. The fiberdistribution system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of outputs of thesplitter are in the form of: connectors; adapters; or stub cables withconnectorized distal ends.
 15. The fiber distribution system of claim 1,further comprising a plurality of splitters in a stack.
 16. The fiberdistribution system of claim 15, further comprising a snap between theplurality of splitters.
 17. The fiber distribution system of claim 1,further comprising a cable clamp for the feeder cable.
 18. The fiberdistribution system of claim 1, further comprising a second base and asecond demarcation cover defining a channel through which a feeder cablecan be routed, the channel defining a breakout region at which aplurality of optical cables of the feeder cable can be accessed, thesecond base including a holding location configured to hold a pluralityof fiber optic feeder terminations; wherein the base is a first base,and at least one cable connects the first base to the second base: 1)wherein the at least one cable is a splitter input cable; 2) wherein theat least one cable is a feeder termination cable; or 3) wherein the atleast one cable is a feeder termination cable that exits the first baseand enters the second base in the channel of the second base.
 19. Afiber distribution box for use with a feeder cable including an opticalcable comprising: a base and an external cover, the base defining afeeder cable area including a channel through which the feeder cable canbe routed, the channel defining a breakout region at which the opticalcable of the feeder cable can be accessed, the breakout region leadingto a routing passage that provides slack storage around a spool or bendradius limiter, the base including a holding location configured to holdfiber optic feeder terminations; the base defining a splitter areaincluding one or more splitter mounting posts for extending throughsplitter bodies mounted in the splitter area, or including one or moredovetail-shaped slots or projections for slidably receiving one or moresplitter devices.
 20. The fiber distribution box of claim 19, whereintwo splitter mounting posts are provided.
 21. The fiber distribution boxof claim 19, wherein the base includes one or more latches for securingsplitters within the one or more slots or projections.
 22. The fiberdistribution box of claim 19, wherein the routing passage includes oneor more optical splice holders; and wherein a pigtail passage alsoconnects to the routing passage, the pigtail passage extending to theholding location.
 23. The fiber distribution box of claim 19, whereinthe channel is a central channel on the base, and has two slack storageareas on opposite sides of the base.
 24. The fiber distribution box ofclaim 19, wherein the splitter area is on an opposite side of the baserelative to the holding location.
 25. The fiber distribution box ofclaim 19, further comprising a cable clamp for the feeder cable, andopposing arms extending around the clamp from the external cover. 26.The fiber distribution box of claim 19, further comprising a tube holderfor holding a tube at a splitter output cable area of the base.
 27. Thefiber distribution box of claim 19, further comprising: one or moresplitter devices including an input cable at a bottom side, a pluralityof splitter outputs at the bottom side, and a splitter component betweenthe input cable and the plurality of splitter outputs, the input cablebeing in the form of a fiber optic cable with a connectorized end, theplurality of splitter outputs being in the form of fiber optic outputadapters, connectors, or cable stubs with connectorized ends, and thefiber optic feeder terminations being in the form of connectors oradapters, the fiber optic feeder terminations facing in the samedirection as the splitter outputs.
 28. The fiber distribution box ofclaim 27, further comprising an internal cover positioned over the cablearea.
 29. The fiber distribution box of claim 27, wherein excess lengthof a splice pigtail of the feeder cable can be stored in the routingpassage before an unconnectorized end of the splice pigtail is routed toa splicing passage for splicing.
 30. The fiber distribution box of claim29, wherein the splicing passage leads from the routing passage to oneor more optical splice holders; and wherein a pigtail passage alsoconnects to the routing passage and/or to the splicing passage, thepigtail passage extending to the holding location.
 31. The fiberdistribution box of claim 27, wherein the channel is a central channelon the base.
 32. A splitter device comprising: a splitter body having afront and an opposite rear along a first length, and a bottom; thebottom having a plurality of splitter outputs; the bottom having aninput cable with a connectorized end; a splitter component between thesplitter outputs and the input cable; wherein the plurality of splitteroutputs are in the form of fiber optic output adapters, connectors, orstub cables with connectorized ends; wherein the splitter body includesan interlocking device on an end of the splitter body, the interlockingdevice being for mounting the splitter device to a structure andincluding one of an opening extending through the splitter body frontand rear for receiving a mounting post and a dovetail-shaped slot orprojection, extending along the first length of the splitter body, forreceiving a correspondingly shaped feature.
 33. The splitter device ofclaim 32, wherein the plurality of splitter outputs includes any numberbetween and including four outputs and sixteen outputs.